Day 2 - Fowey to Moretonhampstead

Clear from the start that the weather was going to get worse, and it did. Met at the ferry in Fowey, kitted out with some warmer clothing in anticipation. Another chain propelled one that chugged across. Joined in the photo by Martin, Tony's room mate. Don't be deceived by the shades.

Warned that the hill on the other side was a 2 foot one, particularly without warming up. The short sharp hills started up in earnest though but then an incredibly long and fast descent to Hessenford where we had an unauthorised coffee stop. Then on almost to Tor Point where organiser Nick (in green) was waiting with the van and lunch. Big pig out.

Definitely getting colder so dug out the warm jacket. Negotiated Plymouth courtesy of the GPS gadget and made good progress to Yelverton where the long climb up to Dartmoor starts. Ground our way up with 2 quickies heading off ahead and the tandem well back.

Tony a bit dehydrated so waited for him at the top, forgetting to unclip from the left side pedal and crashing down onto the gravel. Chain came off so joined The Black Hand gang. Then the rain came, heavier and heavier. Waited in Princetown which was mentioned as a possible rendezvous point but no sign of anyone. Meantime missed the tandem passing by, leaving Tony, me and the support man to do the remaining 15 or so miles.

Now pretty bleak, rain stinging our faces, brakes not working at all well and some more sharp climbs and precipitous descents. Moretonhampstead was a welcome sight. What to do now with all the soaking gear?

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